If you've been wondering what this incredible piece of architecture at 31 West Pender is then wonder no more: It's the Skwachàys Healing Lodge! The recently completed housing development "provides 24 affordable housing apartments for those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The building also provides 18 healing lodge apartments for Aboriginal individuals and their immediate family who need to travel to Vancouver from rural and remote communities for medical services. The building also includes a commercial kitchen, an art gallery and a basement workshop as well as culturally-appropriate services, such as a sweat lodge and smudge room, which provide space for spiritual cleansing and healing.".
Yes, that's a traditional longhouse on top of the building. The first longhouse built in downtown Vancouver since before contact as a matter of fact!
This project was the result of investments from the federal government, the provincial government as well as the City of Vancouver. THAT is awesome. What's also great is that not only will this benefit aboriginal peoples but all residents of Vancouver, as the gallery is free and open to the public 8AM to 6PM, 7 days a week! Talking with Richard George, the president of the Vancouver Native Housing Society, he told me that the aforementioned "basement workshop" will be used by residents of the development who will then be able to sell their works in the gallery. Prints, originals, sculpture, carvings, masks and blankets are all currently on display and I encourage you to go down and check them out!
This is a fantastic addition to the neighbourhood and as it's only 3 blocks from the V.I.A. office we would like to issue a hearty welcome to our new neighbours!
